Lightning, thunder, rain, wind... blackouts! Do you have an elderly neighbor who could use an emergency Kids Care Clubs Blackout – Box if the lights go out? The Wood Park Kids Care Club in Commack, NY developed and implemented this project for local senior citizens. Your Club can adapt it for local families and seniors. The Blackout  Box contains items that will be very useful if the lights go out.

Materials Needed:
* A shoebox or a plastic box with cover
* Index cards or paper/cardboard for telephone numbers
* Flashlight & batteries
* Packaged snacks such as Quaker Chewy Bars or fruit cups
* Bottles of water 

Steps Included:
1. Decide if you will make the box for neighbors or a senior center or assisted living facility.
2. Label the box – Kids Care Clubs Emergency Blackout Box and decorate the shoebox or plastic box.
4. Create a form for phone numbers – an index card would work well. Include the following list of numbers:
o Emergency Number or 911
o Closest Neighbor
o Emergency Family Member Contact
o Electric Company
o Gas Company
o Other important phone numbers
o Your family's telephone number
5. Enclose the flashlight, batteries and snacks.
6. Make a card from your club.
7. Take pictures of your club assembling the boxes and submit to your local newspaper.
8. Call to set up a time to deliver the boxes.
9. Complete a Club Response Card.

Tip:  If there is a blackout, ask your family to check on elderly people or neighbors who might need a call or a visit to make sure they are OK!
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